Doris Foster Free

Doris Free, age 66, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2025, in Katy, Texas. She was born on September 22, 1958, in Wichita, Kansas, to Evelyn and Raymond Sparks. Doris was preceded in death by her beloved father, Raymond Sparks.

Doris grew up surrounded by the love of her family and enjoyed a childhood full of adventure. She was active in Brownies and Girl Scouts, and she spent countless hours playing in the hayloft, though her fun came to an abrupt halt when she fell out and broke her leg. As a young girl, Doris also enjoyed rollerskating and even participated in Roller Derby. However, her greatest passion was her love for animals, especially dogs. She developed a particularly close bond with her surviving dog, Dixie.

Doris is survived by her loving husband of 36 years, Kenneth Edward Free, her son, Scotty Ray Foster, and five grandchildren. She also had the joy of watching her family grow with the addition of one great-grandson. Doris was especially close to her honorary daughter, Leala, who was a dear companion and loved spending time with her.

Doris cherished simple pleasures in life, including walking on the beach, visiting zoos, and playing bingo with Leala. Above all, Doris treasured her time spent with her family. Her legacy of love, kindness, and joy will be forever remembered by those who were fortunate to know her.

She is also survived by her three sisters: Kathleen Lesniak of Harlingen, Texas; Sharon Todd of Fredericksburg, Virginia; and the late Arleen Sparks.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to local animal shelters in Doris’s memory, as she was a devoted animal lover throughout her life.